Types of Stairlifts for Your Home

Do you find it more and more difficult to negotiate the stairs in your home? Do you worry about falling on the stairs because of balance, pain or mobility issues? A stairlift may be the solution for you. Just as you’ve seen on television, stairlifts allow you to ride up and down the stairs comfortably and safely. Not sure whether stair lifts are right for you? Here’s a quick overview of the different types of stairlifts available for your home.
Straight Stairlifts
If your staircase is one straight shot from top to bottom, a straight stairlift can give you back access to your whole home. Straight stairlifts are the easiest to install because there’s no need to figure out complicated angles and curves. In fact, stairlift installers can often arrange next-day installation once you’ve agreed to a quote.
In addition, because of its simplicity, straight chairlifts are often the least expensive models and styles, though there may be options available that make them slightly more expensive. Among the options you might consider are chairlifts that include a sit/stand platform so that you can sit or stand when being transported up and down the stairs.
Curved Stairlifts
Staircases that curve or go around corners require a specialized setup that fits the curve of the stairs precisely. Depending on the manufacturer, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to have stairlifts fabricated and installed. Because of this, along with differences in quality, you should always check around to find out what’s standard in terms of price and timing.
Outdoor Stairlifts
There are also stairlifts designed specifically to be installed on outside staircases. Just like the standard chairlifts, they will be fitted to the stairs, not to a wall, and they’re available in straight and curved designs. The biggest difference is that they are made with sturdier materials, and may have a waterproof cover to protect them from rain and snow.
Options to Look For
Whether you choose a straight or curved stairlift, there are some common options you should look for in a high quality chairlift. They include:

• Two handsets so that you can call the chairlift from the top or bottom of the stairs
• Slim lines to reduce any obstruction of the stairway for other people
• High quality construction
• Secure safety belt
• Swivel seat for easy access
• Easy to use controls

Learn more about stairlifts and how they can make your life easier by contacting a professional installer. Make your life easier starting today.